Bahamas vacation: The six faces of Atlantis

Don't fight the call to Atlantis Beach Tower: Book your trip now through Feb. 9 and you can get $300 off.

By Vince Font

The aptly named Paradise Island, located just off the northern shore of the much larger island of New Providence in the Bahamas, is home to one of the most opulent in appearance (yet affordable in reality) resorts, Atlantis. The only challenge here is in deciding which of the island’s six resorts to call home on your Bahamas vacation. The laid-back appeal of Atlantis Beach Tower or the family attractions at Atlantis Royal Towers? Here’s the lowdown on the best amenities for parents, singles and honeymooners at this unique island escape.

Insider tip: If you’re searching for the ultimate Bahamas vacation or spring break getaways, you’re timing couldn’t be better. Book on Orbitz by Feb. 9 and score any number of deals and discounts, including $300 off, free breakfast and an Atlantis experience pass.

Atlantis Royal Towers
The obvious choice for family travelers is Atlantis Royal Towers for its close proximity to Atlantis Kids Adventures. This isn’t just a romp room and arcade — although they offer that. This is more like a fantasy come to life for kids of all age groups, from toddlers to teens. Older kids can take their choice of teen-themed clubs like Club Rush, with access to video games, Internet and a movie theater. Meanwhile, kids between 3 and 12 can take part in fun culinary classes, karaoke concerts and interactive game play. Some children dread family beach vacations, but once they’ve had a taste of Atlantis Kids Adventures, you’ll have to tear them away.

Atlantis Coral Towers
Vacationing couples looking for the most engaging of Bahamas hotels will discover why Paradise Island is nicknamed “Vegas-by-the-sea.” Coral Towers provides quick access to the nearby Joker’s Wild Comedy Club, and gamblers will delight at being next door to the Atlantis Casino. Best thing about Coral Towers? With affordable Regal Suites up to 800 square feet, even if you walk away from the blackjack table empty handed, it’s difficult to feel like a loser here.

Atlantis Beach Tower
If the salmon façade of the Beach Tower doesn’t put you in a relaxed mood by simply approaching the building, there’s likely something wrong with you — but it’s nothing that a several day stay won’t cure. The laid back, casual atmosphere within practices the defining aspects of the word “vacation.” Its location by the white sands of Atlantis Beach make Beach Tower the obvious choice for those who truly desire a relaxing Bahamas vacation.

The Cove Atlantis
If what you’re looking for is an experience bordering on exclusivity and with a major focus on privacy and quiet, The Cove is the place for you. This is what I like to call an “elegant sanctuary.” The best part about it is that even with 600 rooms, there isn’t a bad seat in the house: All suites offer a panoramic view of the ocean. Outside, the Cain at the Cove is an adults-only area with a pool so big they labeled it an “ultra pool.” For a spot in the heart of the action, you can also rent one of 20 private cabanas.

The Reef Atlantis
What better way to make you feel at home on your Bahamas vacation than by having a Starbucks in the lobby downstairs? But that’s not the only reason to stay at The Reef, where each suite comes complete with a king size bed, spacious walk out balcony and more living space than you’re probably used to at home.

Harborside Resort
Some people go on beach vacations to get away, others go to pamper themselves and bring along the amenities of home — only with far better scenery. If you’re in the latter category, you belong at the Harborside Resort, where you can get super spacious digs (we’re talking three bedrooms and a jetted tub in the master) that will position you closest to Marina Village, where you can shop to your heart’s content. Worry about how to get all that stuff home later. For now, enjoy yourself.

Vince Font is a freelance writer born in Puerto Rico and currently escaped to Utah. When not dreaming of interstellar travel, he’s on the hunt for weird, wacky, and off-the-beaten-track vacation destinations. Next stop: The Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast.

Tagged: Caribbean, Family time